# Act of Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Our Lady of Fatima – Prayer for Houston
*2022-08-27*

> Bill Young leads a special prayer for the flood‑stricken Houston area, sharing Pope John Paul II’s reflection on consecration, his own experience of Marian devotion, and a prayer of consecration to Our Lady of Fatima.

## Why We Pray for Texas

Good afternoon, I’m Bill Young. Today, August 27, we focus our prayers on the people of Texas, especially those suffering from the historic flooding in the Houston area and the damage caused by recent tropical storms. We pray for the victims, the injured, those stranded, and for the relief efforts of the Red Cross, Catholic Charities, and government agencies.

## John Paul II’s Reflection on Consecration

Pope John Paul II taught that we must place everything we possess in the hands of Mary, even the “treasure of treasures,” our Lord Jesus Christ. He reminds us that we are fragile and that our own prudence, strength, and wisdom are insufficient against the many enemies we face. Mary is wise, merciful, gracious, powerful, and faithful; by entrusting ourselves to her, we receive her protection and the grace to conquer our foes. In these uncertain times, when secularism and technology dominate, Mary’s maternal role becomes the path that leads humanity back to Christ.

## My Personal Journey of Consecration

Last year I undertook a 33‑day “Morning Glory” retreat, a self‑directed prayer experience compiled by Fr. Michael Gately. In April I renewed my consecration to Our Lady of Fatima, and I have also followed the Montfortian method of Marian consecration. These practices have deepened my prayer life. Since then my wife has found a fulfilling job and advanced to office manager, and my son, now 24, runs a successful app business. I attribute these blessings to Mary’s intercession.

## Saint Monica and the Power of Prayer

Today is also the feast of Saint Monica, whose persistent prayers transformed the lives of her husband and her son, Augustine, the great saint and bishop. Her example shows how steadfast prayer can bring about conversion and sanctification, even in the most difficult circumstances.

## Act of Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Our Lady of Fatima

O Virgin of Fatima, Mother of Mercy, Queen of Heaven and Earth, refuge of sinners, we consecrate ourselves to your Immaculate Heart. We offer you our hearts, souls, families, and all that we possess. In order that this consecration may be effective forever, we renew today the promises of our Baptism and Confirmation, committing ourselves to live as good Christians, faithful to God, the Church, and the Pope. We promise to pray the Rosary, to receive Holy Communion frequently, to observe the First Saturdays, and to work for the conversion of sinners. May the Most Holy Virgin inflame our hearts and the hearts of others with devotion to your Immaculate Heart, hastening the coming of Jesus’ Kingdom.

Amen.

## Closing Prayer for Houston

Lord, we lift up the people of Houston and all of Texas affected by the floods. Grant swift aid to the injured, comfort to those who have lost loved ones, and restoration of homes and property. May material needs be met, but may we never forget the priceless value of human life. Keep everyone safe and bring them hope through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin.

Amen.

*Entrusting ourselves to Mary’s Immaculate Heart unites us with her maternal care, especially in times of crisis.*